Smile or scare? study tests best way to teach kids to brush

NCT ID NCT07150429

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This study looked at whether showing children pictures of healthy teeth or decayed teeth helps them learn to brush better. Sixty kids aged 7 to 14 received hands-on brushing lessons, some with positive images, some with negative images, and some with no images. Researchers measured plaque and bad breath before, one week after, and one month after the lesson to see which method worked best.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

visual aids (positive or negative images of teeth)

What this could lead to

If effective, this approach could make oral hygiene education more motivating for children, leading to better brushing habits and less plaque.

What could go wrong

This is a small, completed study with only 60 children. Results may not apply to all kids or guarantee long-term improvement.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Dental Plaque Halitosis

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Eskişehir Osmangazi University Faculty of Dentistry Department of Pedodontics

    Eskişehir, Odunpazarı, 26040, Turkey (Türkiye)